Hortobagy National Park steppe landscape in Hungary
Explore Hungarian Wildlife

Birdwatching & Nature in Hungary

From the endless horizons of the Hortobagy puszta to the reed-fringed lakes of the Great Plain, Hungary shelters some of Europe's most remarkable bird populations. We help you find them.

Start with Hortobagy
Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0

A Crossroads for European Birdlife

Hungary sits at the meeting point of several major flyways, which means an extraordinary diversity of species passes through each year. The country's mosaic of grasslands, wetlands, forests, and agricultural land supports over 400 recorded bird species, from the massive Great Bustard to the dazzling European Bee-eater.

Whether you are a seasoned birder or planning your first trip with binoculars, the Hungarian landscape offers experiences that are hard to match anywhere else in Central Europe. Tens of thousands of Common Cranes gather at Hortobagy every autumn, Saker Falcons nest on the Great Plain, and the dawn chorus in the Bukk Hills rivals any forest in the continent.

European Roller bird perched near Kecskemet Hungary European Roller near Kecskemet. Photo: Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0

Practical Guides for Every Season

Destination Guides

Detailed profiles of Hungary's best birdwatching locations, including access information, key species, and the optimal months to visit each site.

Seasonal Calendars

Month-by-month breakdowns of what to expect, from spring arrivals and breeding displays to autumn migration spectacles and winter roosts.

Species Profiles

In-depth look at Hungary's most iconic birds, their habits, habitats, and conservation status, helping you identify what you see in the field.

Read Our Field Notes

Hungary's Birdlife at a Glance

The country's position in the Carpathian Basin, combined with its varied habitats, makes it one of the most rewarding birding destinations in all of Europe.

400+ Recorded Bird Species
10 National Parks
70,000 Cranes Each Autumn
1,700 Great Bustards in Region

Looking for Advice on Your Trip?

We are happy to share tips, suggest itineraries, or point you to local guides. Drop us a line and we will get back to you with ideas tailored to your interests and schedule.

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